A five of any suit is tied very closely with Pluto, the planet of death and rebirth, and Mars, the planet of drive and aggression. This card also has strong ties to the Scorpio astrological sign, symbolizing transformation and renewal. The Cups suit would point towards an emotional journey- a new relationship, a new friendship, a new creative project.

The Five of Cups is one of very few tarot cards that is immediately recognizable as a negative energy. The character depicted on the card is wearing a dark cloak and appears to be crying into goblets, three of which have already fallen over. A castle can be seen in the distance, but it is across a river, symbolizing the space between this figure and home.

Upright: Sadness, loss, discontent

The Five of Cups Upright is a sign of disappointment. This card says to you that you are living in a negative past situation, instead of moving forward into a positive future. The drink spilled from the cups represents an opportunities missed. In the Cups suit, water is a common metaphor for emotions, conveying that this problem is mainly emotional rather than a physical obstacle. This card calls you to work towards healing and release some of the sadness and despair that may be trapping you in the past.

Reversed: Acceptance, finding peace, contentment

Reversed, The Five of Cups card shows the other end of the journey. If you’ve recently experienced a break up or another great tragedy, this card is your sign that you’ve healed enough from the past to start looking towards the future. It is time to start exploring in the area of you experienced tragedy. For example, if you suffered a break up or divorce, this maybe the time to go on a first date.

**In a yes/no reading, The Five of Cups is a no.